Cruelty case sends message to animal owners

An animal welfare organisation says a case of cruelty on the New South Wales far south coast sends a strong message to livestock owners.

The RSPCA says animal owners need to ensure their pets are looked-after if they go away during the festive season.

The calls come after a Bemboka woman pleaded guilty to failing to exercise reasonable care to prevent an act of cruelty, after her horse had to be put down because the animal became emaciated and weak while she was away.

The RSPCA's Chief Inspector, David Oshannessy, says punishments for animal cruelty are harsh.

“The maximum penalty for failing to provide veterinary treatment or failing to prevent an act of cruelty attract a penalty of up to $5,500 and or six months imprisonment,” he said.

The Bemboka woman was fined $1000, and ordered to pay more than $800 in vet costs.